Ranging from saturated paintings to more muted drawings, these new works explore the South Korean-born artist’s heritage. According to mythology, Mago is a goddess that’s the “mother of mothers.” As Spoke Art Gallery notes, this folkloric figure has deeply resonated with Im Hultberg, whose art often examines “her changing role both as daughter and mother.” The artist’s personal connection with Mago is evident in her new work, as each imaginative piece incorporates “personal icons like the peony, representational of her mother, with her own interpretation of folklore.”

In addition to subject matter, the aesthetic style of Im Hultberg’s new series also conveys Korean influences. Featuring rich patterns reminiscent of traditional textiles and bold color palettes characteristic of Korean crafts, these paintings and drawings retain the artist’s contemporary style while introducing age-old inspirations.

Mago is on view at Spoke Art Gallery in San Francisco from August 31 through September 23, 2017.

Celebrating Korean art, heritage, and folklore, Mago is an ethereal exhibition of work by Portland-based artist Stella Im Hultberg.